Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in West Des Moines

The City of West Des Moines, in partnership with West Des Moines Community Schools, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, West Des Moines Historical Society, Des Moines University, Des Moines Area Community College and Polk County, will be hosting a community celebration on Monday, Jan. 20 to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

The evening celebration, held at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex located at 6500 Grand Avenue from 5 - 7:00 p.m. is free and open to the public. The program will feature keynote speaker Al Womble, West Des Moines Citizen of the Year and Political Director for the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO. Attendees will also experience musical performances, enjoy food, explore educational exhibits, and celebrate scholarships and community awards. 

Earlier in the day, residents are invited to participate in a National Day of Service by joining a Meals from the Heartland packaging event taking place from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event provides an opportunity to package meals for local residents.  

There will also be free tours and book giveaways at the Historic Jordan House Museum located 2001 Fuller Road from 1 - 3:00 p.m. These tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the  

Through reflection, service and community engagement, these events aim to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community members are encouraged to join in this meaningful celebration. 

For more information about this event, please visit: http://www.wdm.iowa.gov/Home/Components/News/News/7625/117 

From Pride to Juneteenth to the Latino Heritage Festival, big, inclusive events are par for the course in Greater Des Moines (DSM). But there are smaller events celebrating diversity here, too. Attend one of the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Multicultural Receptions, an event celebrating veterans or a sensory-friendly event in the region. Learn more here.